Russia has always sympathized with the plight of the Christian population in the Middle East, President Vladimir Putin told Patriarch Theophilus III of Jerusalem and Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and all of Russia. "Russia has traditionally paid special attention to the situation of Christians, the Christian population in the Middle East region," he said. "I know you also have a difficult situation, because the situation in the region is quite complex," the president addressed Theophilos III, awarding him the Order of Friendship for his significant contribution to strengthening friendship, cooperation and spiritual ties with Russia. Video: The Kremlin. ru.

Russia has always sympathized with the plight of the Christian population in the Middle East, President Vladimir Putin told Patriarch Theophilus III of Jerusalem and Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and all of Russia. "Russia has traditionally paid special attention to the situation of Christians, the Christian population in the Middle East region," he said. "I know you also have a difficult situation, because the situation in the region is quite complex," the president addressed Theophilos III, awarding him the Order of Friendship for his significant contribution to strengthening friendship, cooperation and spiritual ties with Russia. Video: The Kremlin. ru.